AR mag question
 

I have an AR-15 High Standard M-4 and I am having a problem seating a new magazine when the bolt is closed. It will not seat and lock in the closed position. If I open the bolt everything works fine. Is this normal or do I have a problem?

Re: AR mag question
 

What brand of mag are you using? Some of the cheaper mags can cause problems if you get a bad one.

Re: AR mag question
 

Used military mags for the most part. I'll have to check for the brand name.

Re: AR mag question
 

I have a couple differnt brands and have run into a few problems with ones from C Products and even Colt mags. I have a couple AR Stoner mags that have been very good for me. Others here may be able to give some others that they've had good luck with.

Re: AR mag question
 

Its supposed to be tough with the bolt closed, especially with a loaded mag. essentially you are forcing the compressed spring about another 1/8th to 1/4 inch down before the mag locks into place. I always lock the bolt open, insert mag and drop the bolt with the release because sometimes i will put a loaded mag in and charge the rifle to have the mag fall out because it didnt lock into place and i thought it did... I use magpul p-mag 20 rd mags. they are the best in the west IMO;)

Re: AR mag question
 

The gun was designed to take a full magazine with the bolt open and not closed. If you put one less cartridge in the magazine it will probably solve your problem.

Ron

Re: AR mag question
 

Take one round out of the 30 round mag (with 29 loaded) and try again....that brand of mag may be too tight with a full 30.

Re: AR mag question
 

I load all my mags 1 or 2 rounds short as a general rule. I tried it again last night and did it more gently and it clicked in just fine.

Thanks for the info on proper procedure. I thought it was supposed to be loaded with the bolt locked open. Makes sense to me.

Re: AR mag question
 

dont forget to bang the mag against your 'cover' before slamming it home and dropping the bolt. Helps keep the commies dead and the sand on the ground where it belongs;)

Re: AR mag question
 

I personally have fallen quite in love with PMAGs, as have all my guys. On the upside, they're getting much more inexpensive as time marches on. I used to be quite weary of polymer mags, but Magpul PMAGs have stood up to everything we've put em thru, so I'll back em all day.